Many years in the past, a young woman conceals herself in a forest nearby her home. She lives in a kingdom that knows nothing of her as she tries her best to hide. There is a ring of friends in her life that she has grown to trust however, one of them being the young man she has just met with for a brief moment. His job was to deliver her a letter in secret; this he was successful in completing. The woman scans her paper slowly, devouring each word. It is a connection to the wonderful man who had written it. This young woman's name is Jade Harley.
My Dearest Jade,
I deeply wish I could see you, however I am very far away, as you know. I miss your smile and your laughter, both of which could illuminate entire villages with their shining beauty. I've been disappointed with my lack of ability to speak with you in person as often as we'd both ideally enjoy, but I must continue with my duties as a knight. I have vowed to protect this kingdom and everybody who dwells here, especially you. Of all things I have failed in the past, this is not something I- or anybody- can afford to add to that list. Why, just yesterday we discovered enemies plotting against the castle. It will take much strength for our army to be victorious. I have spoken to the Heir, Mister Jonathan, and he assures us that we shall do well and succeed so long as we work to the best of our abilities. My brother was quite the swordsman, after all! As always, I send my best wishes to you. I am aware that your location must remain secret, but I trust the Page who shall deliver this letter with my life, Mister Jacob. He is a bright fellow, and he seems to be able to inflict hope into just about anybody he speaks to! I hope we will see each other again soon my love. You mean so much to me. Stay safe.
Sincere Wishes,
Sir David Strider
The woman, Jade, reads the letter many times before gently folding it and placing it in her satchel to return home with it. She lives on the very outer edge of the kingdom, in a fairly middle-class village (or, as close as the times could come to one), and in a small house. Although small, she finds it very cozy. There is a beautiful fireplace, a secluded space for a bed, and many books. She disliked to admit it, but she had taken most of her books without permission from their owners. Women were not supposed to be very educated, but she didn't care how the kingdom expected her to live.
She grows herbs and spices outside of her home in a beautiful garden that she is proud to maintain, and grew even more in the forest. Villagers were scared of that forest, so they wouldn't disturb her clearing for what she considers her small farm. She had to be very careful of who she interacted with. The world was not prepared for witches.
